Carol Jean Downing, 91, of Tomah and formerly of Ontario was called to her heavenly home on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, to be reunited with her loved ones. She was born Nov. 28, 1932, to Harley and Caroline (Bergum) Benbo in Fertile, Minn. She was united in marriage to Paul Downing on March 21, 1950, in Havre, Mont. He preceded her in death on Jan. 8, 1999.
They moved to rural Ontario and lived on a farm in the town of Wellington. Carol worked at Tillman’s Produce and The Garment Factory in Hillsboro. She was a homemaker and loved raising her big family. She was an excellent cook and known for her pies. Her grandchildren will always remember cookies and ice cream at Grandma’s. Carol was an animal lover, and her whole life was involved with her dogs. She also enjoyed crocheting and making hand towels with her cousin, Margie, as well as hats, gloves and scarves for the kids. Carol was devoted to her faith and was a dedicated member of the Gospel Hall Church. She had a spitfire personality, and spending time with family and friends was most important to her. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Carol is survived by her children, Paulette Karper of Ontario, David (Alma) Downing of Kendall, Paula Jean (Stuart) Thayer of La Valle, Scott (Daguin) Downing of Kendall, Aaron Downing of Kendall, and Jennifer (Chris) Popp of Tomah; her daughter-in-law, Norlyn Downing; 23 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Downing; her son, Eric Downing; her infant son, Alan; her son-in-law, Brian Smith; her sisters and brothers-in-laws; and a special cousin, Margie Borgending.
A funeral service will be Monday, Sept. 30, at the Gospel Hall Church, 510 Division St., Ontario, at 1 p.m. Ronald Doll and Brandon Doll will officiate. Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Monday at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
